Dental Implants

Dental implants offer advantages over other options but have downsides. Find out all about them.

Dental Implants for Most Natural Teeth

Dental implants are the closest thing to your natural teeth when it comes to missing teeth replacement. A titanium post anchors the false tooth to the jawbone and serves as a substitute tooth root, fusing with the bone. The replacement tooth securely attaches to the post. Dental implants feel, function, and look like your natural teeth.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Advantages of dental implants include:
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They are anchored in place so there is no slippage.

Step 2

Dental implants function as natural teeth in chewing and speaking.

Step 3

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth.

Step 4

Your jawbone will receive stimulation from chewing pressure on the post, helping to maintain bone density and facial structure.

Step 5

Dental implants last a long time. The post lasts a lifetime. The tooth may need to be replaced after 10 to 20 years.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

The disadvantages of dental implants include:
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They cost more than dental bridges and other options.

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They require surgery and a longer healing time, up to six months.

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It will take longer to see the process through because of the gum healing time.

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Some cannot get dental implants because they lack bone density.

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Dentists sometimes require patients to undergo a bone graft to improve bone density.

The Dental Implant Process

The process may look slightly different depending on whether you are getting a single implant, an implant-supported bridge, or implant-supported dentures. Bone density matters, and that can affect the process and healing time.
Dentists will make impressions of your tooth being replaced or your other teeth to get the right shape and size of your dental implant.
Those with lower bone density will likely need a bone graft before proceeding with a dental implant. Dentists require three to six months of healing after getting a bone graft. The easiest way to perform a bone graft is to place it during extraction of the damaged tooth. This reduces the number of surgeries.
Once the bone starts growing and the gum heals, an oral surgeon will reopen the gum and place the titanium post. They will put a temporary crown on top. This will serve as a placeholder until your permanent crown is ready.
Your permanent crown is attached to the post with a third part that secures it.

Maintaining Your Dental Implant

Maintaining a dental implant is similar to oral care for your natural teeth. Brush it as you do your natural teeth and floss around it to prevent gum issues. Use a good mouthwash and see your dentist twice a year for exams and cleanings.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Our dental professionals can examine your mouth and offer recommendations on dental implants or other options. Get started today by calling or booking an appointment online!
Reviewing a dental implant X-ray and model with a patient

FAQ

Will insurance or CDCP cover dental implants?
That is hard to say without checking your specific benefits. Some plans do. Our friendly staff can check your benefits when you come in for an appointment.
What are dental implants made of?
Dental implant crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic, glass, or a composite resin.
Do dental implants really look like my real tooth?
Yes. The materials are crafted into a tooth that matches the colour, shape, and size of your natural tooth.
Will a dental implant ever need replacing?
The post never needs replacing. The crown is expected to last 10 to 20 years but can last much longer with good maintenance.